§ Mr. Ben ChapmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he is taking to ensure that the training 519W and experience of helicopter pilots at RNAS Yeovilton is up to date. [65199]
§ Mr. IngramA multi-level system exists to ensure that all helicopter aircrew are sufficiently trained to carry out any mission that they may be called upon to undertake.
All helicopter crews initially pass through the military flying training system where standards are set and monitored by the tri-service Central Flying School.
Crews in operational squadrons are monitored by the squadron training officer, who ensures that all crews maintain flying currency in accordance with the flying training directive produced by the Assistant Chief of Staff Aviation.
While in squadron service all crews undertake periodic examinations and flying tests to confirm their proficiency. The Naval Flying Standards Flight, made up of senior, experienced instructors external to the units and squadrons, visits squadrons and examines all aircrew, producing written reports on their capability.